Album Review // Daughter // Stereo Mind Game

4AD

For years now, it seemed like Daughter was finished. Following the release of Elena Tonra's fantastic, heartbreaking solo debut under the name Ex:Re, the frontwoman and singer seemed to go silent on social media, leaving fans to wonder if she would return with new music at all, let alone with the band she came up with. Fortunately for us, the band has not only returned, but they've matured since their 2016 opus, Not to Disappear; on Stereo Mind Game, Daughter creates a record that sonically splits the difference between their previous work while forging new lyrical paths.

Around 2010, the delay pedal was having a real moment, both in indie-rock (see: The xx) and hip-hop ("Take Care"). At times, like on lead single "Be On Your Way," Stereo Mind Game feels like a lost record from that era, familiar in all the right ways. But for once, Tonra sounds optimistic when addressing her long-distance lover: "I will meet you on another planet if the plans change/Be on your way." And elsewhere, the band finds new sounds entirely; "Party" utilizes an organic mix of dry drumming and chunky bass work, while highlight "Dandelion" is set against frantic acoustic guitars. While Stereo Mind Game may be a little front-loaded, it's also a nostalgic reminder of what one of the best acts in indie-rock is capable of.